Best Techniques For Escape During A Bear Charge?

Preventing a Bear Charge

When hiking in bear country, be prepared to prevent a bear charge by making noise, staying alert, and keeping a clean campsite. Make noise by talking, singing, or wearing bear bells to alert bears of your presence. Keep a clean campsite by storing food and trash in airtight containers and keeping a safe distance from wildlife. If you’re hiking with a group, stay together and avoid splitting up.

Using Bear Spray

If a bear charges, use bear spray at a 6-8 foot distance and aim for the bear’s face and eyes. Make sure the wind is not blowing towards you and the spray nozzle is pointed upwards to avoid getting sprayed yourself. Use a 1-2 second burst of spray, then step back and repeat if necessary. The effectiveness of bear spray depends on the wind, temperature, and type of bear, so be prepared to use it again if the bear continues to charge.

Fighting Back

If a bear attacks and you don’t have bear spray, fight back by aiming for the bear’s face, eyes, and nose. Use any available objects such as hiking poles, sticks, or rocks to defend yourself. If a grizzly bear attacks, use a combination of playing dead and fighting back. Lie flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your head and your legs spread apart. This can help to make you look less threatening and give the bear a way to leave without attacking you further.